Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese have extended wishes to the 700,000-strong Australian-Indian community ahead of India's 73rd Republic Day.
Mr Morrison said it's a wonderful coincidence that Australia shares its national holiday with India on 26 January.
"There is an easiness, a natural connection between our two cultures, and a deep friendship. Australians call it mateship. Indians call it dosti (friendship)," Mr Morrison said.
"Our familiarity means that we can work easily together – and together we strive to build a better world," he said.
Mr Albanese said he was proud that Labor Prime Minister Ben Chifley had declared India to be "the linchpin of Asia" and wholeheartedly supported its independence.
"On behalf of the Australian Labor Party, I would like to acknowledge the Indian community in Australia and give thanks for all you have done to shape our nation," Mr Albanese said.
"I cannot understate the contribution your community makes to our country, and I hope a government I lead will help you and your families achieve your aspirations. May your celebrations be a joyous sign that our best days are ahead of us," he added.
Mr Morrison said the pandemic has been testing for the communities that share Australian and Indian heritage.
"In 2022, we share a hope of a COVID recovery – with families reuniting, and students and travellers returning to both of our shores, and our peoples living with health, safety and prosperity," he said
"I join them — and every Australian with a connection to India — in celebrating the Constitution's enactment on this day," he added.
Mr Albanese said Australians and Indians shared values include 'unshakeable belief in the primacy of the ballot box,' universal healthcare, 'commitment to human dignity and rights' and 'passion for cricket'.
"Above all, we are friends," he said.
